Registering a Vermont DBA (doing business as), also known as a trade name, is a simple process that you complete with the Secretary of State.
Learn How to Get a DBA in Vermont yourself in two simple steps:
You can hire a professional service such as LegalZoom to file your DBA for you. Their packages start at $99 (plus state fees).
DBA Vermont - Learn How to File a Vermont DBA in Two Easy Steps
Step 1: Start With a Vermont DBA Name Search
If you haven't already, head over to the Vermont Secretary of State’s Corporations Division website to make sure your trade name isn't taken by another registered Vermont business. Your name can be similar to other business names, but it’s still a good practice to create a unique name.
TIP: Our business name generator tool is a great resource for entrepreneurs who are still working to create the perfect business name or website address. You can also use our free logo generator tool to make a logo yourself! No design experience necessary!
In Vermont, your trade name should not include:
- Any business entity suffix, such as LLC, Incorporated, Corp., etc unless the business is actually an LLC, corporation, or etc.
- Any terms given to financial institutions, including: "bank," "banc," "banco," 'banque," "banker,``''trust company," "savings and loan association," "savings bank," "credit union" or other similar words.
You can find detailed information about Vermont business naming regulations here.
Next, a quick search on the U.S. Trademark Electronic Search System will tell you whether someone else has already trademarked your name.
Now would be the perfect time to make sure there’s a web domain available for your DBA as well.
After registering a domain name for your DBA, consider using a business phone service to improve customer satisfaction and further establish credibility. Our top pick is Nextiva because of its affordable pricing and useful features. Start calling with Nextiva.
Step 2: Complete the Vermont Trade Name Registration Form
In Vermont, you register your DBA with the Secretary of State. You can file online at the Vermont Secretary of State’s Corporations Division website after creating an account, or you can request a registration form to file by mail. When requesting a form, enter "trade name registration form" in the "form(s) being requested" box.
A DBA does not offer any protection for your personal assets in the event that your business is sued. For more information on setting up a limited liability company, visit our How to Form an LLC page and select your state.
Submit Your Trade Name Form
You can register your DBA directly on the Vermont Secretary of State's website. You can also file physically either in person or by mail after first requesting the form online or by phone at 802-828-2386.
Walk-In or Mail
Vermont Secretary of State
Corporations Division
128 State Street
Montpelier, Vermont 05633-1104
Fees
- $50 Filing Fee
- $25 Certificate of Status
- $25 Certified Copies
Manage Your Vermont DBA
DBA Questions
Call the Vermont Secretary of State’s Corporations Division: 802-828-2386
Renew Your DBA with the State
Your Vermont business name must be renewed every five years. The renewal fee is $40. You can complete the renewal process online.
Change Your DBA
To change the name of your DBA, you must cancel your current registration and file a new one. To make other changes to the registration, you can complete the business amendment process online. The amendment fee is $20.
Withdraw Your DBA
You can cancel your business name online or by requesting a form to file by mail. The fee is $20.
Need Help Filing Your Vermont Trade Name?
Have a Professional Service File Your Vermont DBA For You
A professional service will handle filing your DBA on your behalf, allowing you to focus on the other needs of your new business.
We recommend using LegalZoom ($99 + state fee) for a personalized DBA service.
FAQ DBA Vermont
Can I file a DBA online in Vermont?
Yes, you can file for a Vermont business name at the Vermont Secretary of State’s Corporations Division website.
How do I change my DBA in Vermont?
To change the name of your DBA, you must cancel your current registration and file a new one. To make other changes to the registration, you can complete the business amendment process online. The fee for making amendments is $20.
How can I insure my Vermont DBA?
DBAs don’t require insurance because DBAs aren't a business entity. However, the business entity that the DBA is under will need protection from losses that can happen naturally in the course of business, such as property damage or lawsuits.
We recommend Tivly because they provide coverage for a large variety of businesses. Get a free quote from Tivly or call 855-965-3168 to learn more.
How can I withdraw my DBA?
You can cancel your business name online or by requesting a form to file by mail. The fee is $20.
How often should I renew my Vermont DBA?
Your Vermont business name must be renewed every five years. The renewal fee is $40. You can complete the renewal process online.
When is a DBA required in Vermont?
A DBA is required whenever a business is operating under a name other than its legal name.
How do I transfer my DBA in Vermont?
To transfer ownership of a trade name in Vermont, you will need to cancel your current registration and file for a new one. Vermont provides a single form that combines these actions upon request.
Is my Vermont DBA protected from being used in other places?
There are some state-level laws that prevent DBAs that are too similar to existing ones from being used, but your name is not protected in Vermont. It is possible to create a federal trademark for a DBA, which would offer stronger protection across state lines.
How many DBAs can I have?
You can have as many DBAs as you can afford to create and are able to keep track of. However, more isn’t necessarily better. Each one will come with additional incremental expenses and paperwork, so you will want to make sure you have a good reason for each one you have.
Can a DBA get an EIN or Tax ID?
DBAs aren’t required to have a separate EIN because DBAs aren’t a business entity. The business entity that the DBA is under would have an EIN if an EIN is required.
To learn more about EINs and when you would need one for your business, read What is An EIN from our friends at TRUiC.
Can a DBA become an LLC?
Your DBA is just a name. A DBA is often confused with a sole proprietorship. If you mean “can my sole proprietorship become an LLC?” then the answer is “Yes. Absolutely.”
To learn how to form an LLC, visit our Form an LLC state guides.
Can a DBA have "Inc." in the name?
A DBA can only have "Inc." in the name if the business entity the DBA is attached to is a corporation.
How do I set up a DBA for a rental property?
It’s always best to consult an attorney. Usually, the best option is to form an LLC to protect your personal assets in the event of an issue with the rental property. Holding the rental property in your name and with a DBA will not afford you any protection.